Hugh Renton was called into the Highlanders squad in 2021 as an injury replacement and after impressive displays during the pre-season was added to the full squad for the remainder of the Super Rugby Season. 

Hugh was named on the bench to play the Crusaders in Round 1 of the 2021 Super Rugby Aotearoa season and made his Highlanders debut.  He ended up playing 12 games for the side during the 2021 season and was recognised as one of the standout performers. Hugh was part of the match day 23 that played in Super Rugby Trans-Tasman final against the Blues.

Hugh added an additional 12 caps in 2022 before returning to the Tasman Mako for the Bunnings NPC.